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A days, B days

Ornella

Nominated by
Ornella
“A Days, B Days” is a visual exploration of the cyclical nature of human experience. It delves into the contrasting rhythms of inner states — the flow of clarity and ease on “A days” versus the heaviness and entanglement of “B days.” The project reflects the constant shift between mental clarity and the struggle against internal barriers, showcasing how the simplest actions can become obstacles when trapped in a dense state of mind. Through this photographic series, I capture the essence of this duality: the dynamic tension between lightness and weight, openness and confinement. The images serve not only as a documentation of emotional cycles but also as a reminder that the “B days” are not permanent. There is always a way out, sometimes found in the smallest of movements. In its visual narrative, “A Days, B Days” invites viewers to witness the human soul’s rhythm, urging an awareness of the possibility for change — that even in moments of mental and emotional stagnation, transformation is within reach.
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The Artist
Ornella
Nominated in
2023
By
Ornella
Lives and Works in
Ornella Mari is a Belgian-born, Hungarian-Italian photographer based in Budapest. Her work explores themes of identity, femininity, and self-perception, often delving into the emotional and psychological landscapes of her subjects. Through a nuanced approach to portraiture, she captures the complexities of human experience, from moments of vulnerability to personal transformation. Mari’s journey with photography began as a means of self-exploration, gradually evolving into a broader investigation of societal expectations and internal struggles. Her images balance intimacy with universality, inviting viewers to reflect on themes of self-acceptance, resilience, and the fluid nature of identity. Rooted in both conceptual and documentary influences, Mari’s photography serves as a visual dialogue between the external world and inner realities. Whether through staged compositions or candid moments, her work seeks to challenge perceptions and offer new ways of seeing oneself and others.
More projects by this artist
2023

Through Hardship to the Stars

This project delves into the powerful role photography played in my personal evolution and how it became an essential tool in shaping my self-image and body perception. As I navigated the challenges of growing up in a complex cultural environment, I often found myself grappling with deep insecurities that affected my relationship with both my appearance and identity. Photography became my escape — a way to step outside of the harsh internal narratives I had about myself and see my image from a more detached, objective point of view. At the outset, my self-portraits were intentionally ironic, using humor and exaggeration to distance myself from the pain I felt. These early images were a way of acknowledging my discomfort with how I saw myself, but they also became a way to confront and transform that discomfort. Over time, these staged, over-the-top portraits evolved into more genuine, raw photographs that captured moments of vulnerability in my daily life. These candid images were less about performing for the camera and more about honestly engaging with my feelings and experiences. Through this process, I began to confront the struggles I had with my identity and self-worth. The photos allowed me to explore various aspects of my personality, expressions, and emotions that I had previously hidden or ignored. As I became more comfortable with myself through the camera’s lens, I started to embrace the beauty in my imperfections and acknowledge the strength in my vulnerability. The act of photographing myself helped me develop a healthier relationship with my body, moving beyond the critical, external voices that once dominated my self-image. It was no longer just about how I appeared but about how I felt and the deeper truths I discovered about my own inner strength. Through the art of photography, I not only saw my external image in a new light but also began to appreciate the complexities and layers of my inner world, ultimately leading to a more empowered and authentic sense of self.